Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Cajun spices and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when you want to impress your friends and family. It’s quick to prepare and satisfies your taste buds with every bite.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 8 oz linguine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Chicken: Toss the chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter. Sauté garlic and bell pepper for 1–2 minutes. Add cream, broth, paprika, and bring to a simmer.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked linguine and chicken to the pan. Toss to coat in the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine hot, straight from the pan. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few slices of crusty bread on the side for a complete meal. This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream to keep it creamy.
Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Cajun seasoning for a couple of hours before cooking.
- If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer shrimp, replace the chicken with shrimp for a tasty seafood twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use a light cream or milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter used.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors it brings to your table!
Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for best results.
- 1 tbsp olive oil For searing the chicken.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
- to taste Salt & pepper For seasoning.
- 8 oz linguine Or any preferred pasta.
- 2 tbsp butter For the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced For the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with light cream for a lighter version.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan For a creamy finish.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional) Adds a smoky flavor.
- to garnish Chopped fresh parsley For presentation.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt the butter. Sauté garlic and bell pepper for 1–2 minutes.
- Add cream, broth, paprika, and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked linguine and chicken to the pan. Toss to coat in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
